Interviews Techniques and Scholarship News

5 Ways Networking can Help your Personal Brand

2014-06-14T04:23:00.000-07:00

When building a personal brand we often miss the golden opportunity of networking – both online and offline. This strategy not only opens the door to new jobs and opportunities, but it also creates lasting relationships to build on. Even though it is not a new concept, the power of making meaningful connections has become more important than ever in a social media driven world.

The right relationships in business is a vital component both online and offline. You are who you connect with, and how a brand is perceived from others creates a lasting impression. Professional growth depends on networking, and should be viewed as an important part of your branding strategy.

In what ways can you effectively build your network? Through reaching out, guest blogging, thanking others for their content and services, and sharing valuable information from those inside your niche, and so on.

The best networking opportunities for your personal brand are cultivated over time, and consist of a combination of integrity, and quality that you can offer to people. Being active on networks like LinkedIn, Google Plus Hangouts, Facebook Groups, and Twitter Chats will show others that you are serious about becoming a valuable contributor and connection.

How to build a great network

There are several steps you can take when building the right connections for your personal brand.

• Be active on LinkedIn – This business-minded social network is the ultimate place for networking. But having a well laid-out profile is not enough. By joining the right groups for your niche, and actively participating in conversations you are attracting like-minded individuals to your brand. It is important to send out personalized messages, and not sell to people in your network.

• Attend events through Meetup – A great way to connect with others in your industry is to join in on professional meetings and events. You will be surprised at how many you find on this powerful network in your area.

• Make a new connection each week – Make it a goal to meet a new contact in your niche on a weekly basis, and at the end of the month you will notice growth not only from these people, but also from those who have found your brand through these connections.

• Offer valuable content – What ideas does your brand have to others that will be unique, professional, and helpful? Not only will you become known as an expert in your industry, but you will attract more influencers to your network.

Taking the time to build your personal brand’s network will not only create a more professional, and reputable persona, but also opens the door for new opportunities, which eventually will lead your company to more sales

Leaders Must “Love” Their Customers

Look, even on your best day you will not be in alignment with every customer.
Whether the dissonance is small or large, organizations exist to meet their customers needs and ones that do it better tend to have greater retention rates because satisfied customers are unequivocally the best marketing on the planet. (According to a study I just made up).
But in serious, anyone that has run a business knows the value of a happy customer. Especially one that is willing to share their experiences with other potential customers.
Which is precisely why business leaders MUST love their customers.

However, it is funny how many do not…or at least they have a funny way of showing it.

When a Leader doesn’t Love their Customers

Have you ever worked for or spoken to a CEO or executive that just bitches and moans about their customers?
I’m guessing if you’ve been around a while you have.
However, if you haven’t let me tell you something…
This type of negativity is uncontainable.
I have worked in multiple organizations where senior leaders showed an almost inexplicable disdain toward the company’s customers. And when a high level leader is consistently verbalizing their dissatisfaction with a customer the fall out spreads quickly and it creates an organization where this type of negativity is seen as okay.
It isn’t.
The problem is that customer satisfaction and the customer experience in general is misunderstood. The goals for achievement are set in an unreasonable matter and it starts with a quip that was well intended but completely misguided.

The Customer is NOT Always Right

Somewhere along the lines someone decided that the customer is always right.
I disagree.
The customer is absolutely positively not always right.
However…
The customer is always the customer.
The nuance here is the difference between a customer centric organization that achieves the greatest success and the customer focused organization that allows their customers to abuse them and put them out of business.

Customer Centric, The Right Way

In today’s highly connected world where a bad Yelp review can cause your customers off in flocks there is an extraordinarily fine line between managing customers expectations and allowing customers to push you around.
While the nuance between a happy customer and a frustrated one can often be small, customer centric is a top down approach.
Starting at the very top of the organization, leadership must create a culture that is customer oriented. Where the goal of the employee whether senior management or front line is to create meaningful and satisfying customer experiences. However the organization must focus on teaching its employees to manage customer expectations in order to deliver a positive experience that the customer will want to share, while simultaneously making it beneficial to the company.
The subtle difference is when you constantly have to give beyond your comfort for a customer then you are creating a dissonance that makes your feelings negative toward the customer.
Meaning that the focus must turn to creating give-take equality that makes the customer satisfied and the employee happy. If this becomes unachievable sometimes the best thing you can do is fire a customer.
And as difficult as that may be for some companies, continuing to work to make a customer happy at the expense of the business and its employees isn’t leadership…it is STUPID!

Shooting for Customer Satisfaction

Let me ask you a question.
How valuable is a happy customer to you if it costs you profit and morale to get them there?
Customer Satisfaction needs to come with an asterisk.
Satisfaction isn’t realized unless all sides are better for it. Otherwise it is merely placating them. Further my guess is the customer will eventually be lost because the ability to continue to satisfy them will likely eventually start to cost more than your business can afford.
But here is an important consideration…
What I am saying above doesn’t give a leader the right to bash the customer.
What it does suggest is that a leader MUST make the decision between when satisfying the customer at whatever cost is determined is good for the business and when it is not. If the decision is to take care of the customer then that is a continuation of the commitment that the business has made to the customer and should be taken seriously.
However, if satisfying the customer is going to make you resentful and therefore negative toward the customer then it is time to sever the relationship because your business, or any business for that matter that doesn’t love its customers is going to be short lived.
Loving your customers is only a choice for businesses that don’t care. And while it feels like something should come after that, I think “Don’t Care” sums it up pretty well.
How do you show love to your customers?
- See more at: http://millennialceo.com/customer-service/love-customers/#sthash.nlfzSUtt.dpuf

Personal Branding Weekly – How to Create Meaningful Attention

2014-06-13T02:00:00.000-07:00

Because content has been touted as “king”, we see many spewing out loads of content thinking that is the way to draw attention to their personal brand. The question then is “any content good content?”

Twitter as an engagement tool

On Twitter, you hear the advice of “tweet 8 times a day to get noticed”. Is it more a broadcast channel or a place to really create engagement and develop relationships?

The answer is “yes” if you focus on that. There are definitely several brands and individuals who broadcast at high velocity to stay top of mind. You, as a personal brand, have the ability to do so in a more meaningful way by providing meaningful mentions for meaningful attention.

Twitter used correctly is a creative way for you to personally connect with people that you wouldn’t otherwise have a direct connection with. It’s also a great tool to build relationships with acquaintances.

You can reach company presidents, organization leaders and influencers in your industry in a way that establishes rapport and a chance for them to get to know you. People do business with people they know, like and trust. Enter into true conversations with people on Twitter, and you can develop know, like and trust with them.

To chat or not to chat

If you’ve spent any time on Twitter, you’ve heard of Twitter chats. They are conversations. It is a chat session that goes on via Twitter, sending your messages out via public tweets.

Where I see people struggle is in deciding to create a chat themselves. Some delve into this quickly, after all the practice of creating your own Facebook groups and LinkedIn groups is so popular now that the natural tendency is to believe that developing a Twitter chat should be just as easy.

Gary Vaynerchuk recommends “don’t do it!” He says to ride the hashtag rather than create it.

As the creator and moderator of #brandchat, a weekly chat on Twitter all about every aspect of branding that’s been in existence of five years, I see the value in creating a chat yet there has to be good decision making and strategy around it. I have a few of my own thoughts, too, and if you’re interested in exploring if a Twitter chat is right for you or need the “how to’s” in creating one, then I cover that in my YouTube series titled, Twitter Chat Tips.

Be meaningful

One easy way to be meaningful immediately, is to retweet with purpose or mention someone with your thoughts included. When commenting on valuable content that has been tweeted, posted, or otherwise written, be sure that your comment is thorough and shares your insights as to why this pertains to you. Answer the question – what made it valuable to your specific area of expertise? Don’t just recommend it; provide a reason why it is your recommendation.

This week we also covered:

What’s Irritating about Cell Phones? by Debra Benton
Why Successful People Use Their Indoor Voices by Nance Rosen
How to Set and Achieve Your Goals by Ceren Cubukcu
6 Ways to Find Fulfillment in Your Career by Heather Huhman
Video Interviewing for the Unemployed by Alex Freund
It’s Not Personal Just Business; Think Twice! by Elinor Stutz
Win the Talent War by Opting for Transparency by Glassdoor.com
Better Questions Equal Better Networking Results by Richard Kirby
Under-Thinking the Pre-Game Plan by Eddy Ricci
Personal Brands: LinkedIn the Network to Watch by Maria Elena Duron
What Millennials can Learn from Rules 13 and 14 by Jeff Shuey
Moms: First Mentors That Set the Stage for Success by Skip Weisman
Creative Branding Defined by Susan Gilbert
Maximize Your Time By Outsourcing by Leslie Truex
How Small Business Owners Can Attract ‘Top Talent?’ by Beth Kuhel
Make an Employer Want to Hire You by Ken Sundheim
Employee Referrals – Your Ticket to Your Next Job by Marc Miller

culled from http://www.personalbrandingblog.com/personal-branding-weekly-how-to-create-meaningful-attention/

Master and PhD Scholarships at Andrássy University Budapest

2014-06-12T05:11:00.003-07:00

Deadline: 30 June, 2014
Open to: graduates with excellent written and spoken German language skills
Scholarships: 34,000 HUF per month

Description

Andrássy University Budapest (AUB) is an academic joint venture for Hungary and Europe, which serves as a German bridge in the Danube region. AUB offers an innovative profile for internationality with Budapest as its centre, and follows its motto „Fit for Europe”: Explore, Transfer and Live Europe!

Andrássy University Budapest offers seven master’s programmes and four different PhD programmes at the faculties of International Relations, Central European Studies and Comparative Law and Governance respectively. The programs can be reviewed here.

Admission Requirements

First degree;
Excellent written and spoken German language skills;
(passive) English language skills;
Successful entrance examination (Consists of written and oral parts, with the written a prerequisite for the oral. May be taken even if the degree is not yet issued, in which case a confirmation of the accomplished degree is necessary).

Tuition fees: HUF 280,000/semester or EUR 930,-/semester
Duration of studies: 2/4 semesters

Scholarships

You can apply for the scholarship of the Hungarian Republic 2014/2015, the documents for which are available in German here and here. The scholarship amounts 34,000 HUF per month and is in duration of 10 months.

Furthermore, the students of Andrássy University Budapest may choose from a wide range of scholarship opportunities. More than 50% of the students receive a scholarship, which margins the whole or a part of their expenses. They can find incoming scholarships anywhere they come from and for anything they want to study at the AUB.

With the outgoing scholarships they can study or do an internship abroad for a short time.
For personal consultation about scholarships, please contact the scholarship committee at stipendien(at)andrassyuni.hu or over skype at stipendien

How to Apply?

Please send your application form in German with the supporting documents (CV, letter of motivation, highest degree in German or Hungarian language and language certificates) to the Admissions Office, Andrássy University Budapest at uni(at)andrassyuni.hu or via post (H-1088 Budapest, Pollack Mihály tér 3.)
Further information in German are available here.

Should you have any questions about the application, then do not hesitate to contact the Registrar’s Office, the contact of which is available HERE.

Deadline for applications for international students to Master’s degree program or Postgraduate courses is June 30, 2014.

The official web-page

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarships by University of the Arts London, UK

2014-06-12T05:09:00.002-07:00

Deadline: 30 September 2014
Open to: international students from a developing country
Scholarship: full tuition fee and stipend to cover accommodation and living costs

Description

The University of the Arts London is pleased to offer a number of scholarships to those wishing to study at postgraduate level. The aim of the Vice-Chancellors international scholarships is to learn any of the courses offered by the University of the Arts London. Funded by the University, these scholarships are some of their most prestigious awards.

Established in 2004, University of the Arts London is a vibrant world centre for innovation, drawing together six colleges with international reputations in art, design, fashion, communication and performing arts. Currently, the University of the Arts London is Europe’s largest specialist arts and design university, with close to 19,000 students from more than 100 countries.

Eligibility

Applicants must be international students from a developing country (from countries outside the G20 group) with an offer for a full-time masters degree starting in 2015.

The G20 group is: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, United States, and the countries belonging to the European Union.

Scholarship

Full tuition fee and stipend to cover accommodation and living costs.

Application

Applications for scholarship must be received by 30 September 2014 for courses starting in January 2015.

Interested candidates must register using the online registration form.

For further information, please visit the official website.

Master in European Project Planning and Management, Florence

2014-06-12T05:07:00.000-07:00

Deadline: 20 June 2014
Open to: graduated candidates of all nationalities

Description

The third edition of the Master in European Project Planning and Management aims to provide participants with the skills to successfully work in the field of European cooperation, through the use of EU funding for education, training, culture and research.

The Master will provide participants with the skills to:

make their way through the funding opportunities managed by the European Commission;
interpret correctly a call for proposal for funding and develop effective project ideas;
create an appropriate transnational project partnership;
organize and plan the Financial Aspects of the project;
fill in the Application Form for the submission of a European Project;
manage and organize the European project work;
manage relations with the partnership and with the European Commission;
monitor and evaluate the project;
carry out an effective project financial management.

The Master has a total duration of 5 months. It will be organized in: 2 months of classroom based course and project work and 3 months of international internship.

A three months internship is organized for all participants in the Master. It starts at the beginning of January 2014 and ends at the end of March 2014.

The internship provides the Master’s participants with the opportunity to work as an Assistant European Project Manager in a public or private organization with long experience in managing European projects.

The information on the host organizations for the internship is available HERE.

Eligibility

The Master is addressed to participants who have obtained a university degree in any discipline. Applications are welcome from candidates of all nationalities.

Scholarship

The Master does not offer scholarships. However, residents in the European Union can apply for a mobility grant to cover the costs of travel and accommodation during the international internship. The mobility grants are available in the framework of the Erasmus+ KA1 Programme (Learning Mobility of Individuals). The application is to be made to the National Agency in the country of residence.

Application

Students willing to enroll in the Master course should fill in and send to Pixel (master@pixel-online.net) the registration form and the necessary enclosures by 20 June 2014.
To enroll in the Master it is necessary to fill in the Registration Form, available HERE
The Registration Form should be sent with the enclosures there specified.
More information is available at the official webpage here.
The Master brochure can be downloaded here.

Vaclav Havel Journalism Fellowships in Prague, Czech Republic

2014-06-12T04:59:00.003-07:00

Deadline: 7 July 2014
Open to: journalists from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, and the Russian Federation
Fellowship: a monthly stipend, housing and travel costs

Description

The Vaclav Havel Journalism Fellowship is an initiative of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, and is generously supported by the Prague Freedom Foundation and the Dagmar and Vaclav Havel Foundation.

The purpose of the Fellowship is to support aspiring journalists from countries lacking media freedom and independence to pursue their profession in support of pluralism. It is inspired by former Czech President Vaclav Havel’s belief in the transformational role of journalism in challenging tyranny.

The Vaclav Havel Journalism Fellowship is made up of five main components:

Professional development alongside RFE/RL’s seasoned professionals;
On-the-job training, to include daily multi-media programming and reporting;
New skills development;
Participation in the daily editorial debates and discussions that inform a professional and independent press;
Mentorship.

Eligibility

This year, the Fellowship accepts applications from journalists in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, and the Russian Federation. English language proficiency is required.

Fellowship

Fellowships are for a term of nine months, with seven months spent at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty Prague and the first and last month spent with a local RFE/RL bureau. In addition to their training in Prague, Fellows will participate in a week long professional development program in Washington, Brussels or Geneva.

A monthly stipend, housing, and travel arrangements to and from Prague are provided.

Application

The application deadline is 7 July 2014.

Applicants should submit together with the application form the following documents:

Personal data and personal statement;
Work samples;
Two letters of recommendation;
Curriculum Vitae;
Letter to “Vaclav Havel”;
Copy of an English language certificate (optional).

Completed applications must be submitted in English to: havelfellowship@rferl.org.

For further information visit the official website.

United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Global Forum in Bali, Indonesia

2014-06-12T04:58:00.000-07:00

Deadline: 30 June 2014
Open to: youth between 18-30 years old
Venue: 29-30 August 2014 in Bali, Indonesia

Description

The Global Forum is the highest-profile event of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations. The 6th Global Forum will be held this year in Bali, Indonesia and the theme of the Forum will be “Unity in Diversity: Celebrating Diversity for Common and Shared Values”.

This Forum will bring together participants including youth, political and corporate leaders, civil society activists, representatives of faith communities, journalists, etc. to work together and agree on joint actions to improve relations across cultures and religions and build a lasting peace.

A total of 100 youth from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds and with outstanding track records in intercultural dialogue and youth work will be selected as participants of the Youth Event which will take place on 28 August 2014.

The Indonesian government is offering some support for the 100 youth representatives wishing to attend the UNAOC Forum in Bali.

Eligibility

In order to participate in the Forum, applicants must:

Be 18-30 years old;
Have a good command of English;
Be members of non-government and non-for-profit youth-led organizations (organizations led by youth for the benefit of youth), or have experience in youth activities.Mandate of the youth organization or youth activities is related to the UNAOC’s objectives.

The youth event offers 100 places: 40 places will be allocated to international participants and 60 places will be allocated to Indonesian participants.

Costs

The organisers will cover accommodation, food, local transport and travel costs.

International participants will need to cover transportation to and from the capital airport in their home country and all visa related costs. They must obtain their own travel and medical insurance for their stay in Bali.

Application

In order to apply you must submit the application form to: bali@unaocyouth.org

The deadline for applications is 30 June 2014 (11:59 PM- New York time).

For further details please visit the official website.

Research Fellowships in Social Sciences and Humanities, Singapore

2014-06-12T04:39:00.001-07:00

Deadline: 1 July 2014
Open to: outstanding active researchers from around the world
Fellowship: monthly salary of S$5,000, a monthly housing allowance of S$500 and a one-off travel subsidy of S$2,000

Description

The National University of Singapore (NUS) and the Asia Research Institute (ARI) are offering postdoctoral fellowships in the field of social sciences and humanities. All positions are intended for outstanding active researchers from around the world, to work on an important piece of Asia-related research in the social sciences and humanities.

Applicants should only apply for one of the five types of fellowship (Senior Research Fellow, Research Fellow, Postdoctoral Fellow, Visiting Senior Research Fellow and Visiting Senior Research Fellow Sabbatical). Apart from the quality of research, positions will be awarded on the basis of the relationship of the research topic to ARI’s specific cluster of research.

Eligibility

The Senior Research Fellow and the Research Fellow, are open only to candidates with more than 5 years of research experience after their PhD may apply for the Senior Research Fellowship position. They must have a PhD from a reputable university and with publication record preferably in English Language.

For the Postdoctoral Fellowships, candidates must have fulfilled all requirements of securing a PhD from a reputable university. Those who are a PhD candidate at the point of application, you may also apply provided that you are confirmed for graduation by your commencement date at ARI. An official letter from the Registrar Office of your university will be required to confirm the award of your PhD degree.

Visiting Senior Research Fellow and Visiting Senior Research Fellow Sabbatical require to candidates to have extensive research experience after their PhD and a strong publication record in the field.

Fellowship

An all-inclusive, fixed monthly salary of S$5,000, a monthly housing allowance of S$500 and a one-off travel subsidy of S$2,000 will be provided (the latter two are applicable to non-Singaporeans only). These will be subjected to taxation in accordance with local tax laws.

Application

Closing date for applications is 1 July 2014. You may wish to check with your referees that they have submitted their references before the closing date.

Interested applicants are invited to email their applications to joinari@nus.edu.sg, consisting of:

Completed application form;
CV;
Synopsis of the proposed research project;
At least one short sample of published work, preferably in English;
A minimum of two letters of reference are sent to us in confidence via email reporting on the applicant’s academic standing and on the applicant’s research project.

For further information, please visit the official website.

Build your Personal Brand on Facebook for Your Next Job Search

2014-06-12T04:32:00.003-07:00

When it comes to building your personal brand for new career opportunities we think of tapping into LinkedIn. But did you know that Facebook is also a valuable job search tool? This powerful network is a perfect place to showcase your accomplishments and skills, and build a strong reputation.

So how do you best use Facebook to find that next employer or opportunity? Through reaching out to your friends with posts, announcements, and any information that would draw attention to your goal.

Think about it. Facebook has become one of the most popular social networks in the world. Next to Twitter any news, announcements, and referrals come directly to you before anyone else knows about it. Consider your connections, and choose wisely. They just might be holding the key to your new position!

How to use Facebook for your job search

There are several things to keep in mind when choosing to build your personal brand and network on Facebook.

• Change your privacy settings – This is an important step, especially when you are currently employed. You will want to add extra security measures, and be sure that spammers are not posting to your profile and making comments on your posts.

• Join company pages – Do you have your sights set on a specific place of employment? Become a fan of their Page, and start interacting there. This will also give you a gauge of what they are looking for in an employee.

• Watch for recruiting ads – Some employers are using Facebook to attract potential employees with ads. Facebook will remember your searches, and so start performing one for the organizations you are interested in.

• Have a great description – Take a look at your profile on LinkedIn, and try to match that as closely as possible in your Facebook description. Carefully choose your title, position, and any companies you work for or who have been at in the past.

Building your personal brand on Facebook takes time, patience, and attention. If you are planning on using this network as a professional outreach, be wise about what you post. and is it something you want a prospective employer to see? You may also choose to create a Facebook Page instead if you do not want to use your personal profile.

4 Thoughtful Ways to Recognize Your Mentor

2014-06-12T03:30:00.002-07:00

Take a moment to think about where you are today and how you arrived at your current job. Were there any special people who helped you accomplish your career goals?

An important element of building a strong personal brand is thanking the people who helped you achieve your dreams. Mentors and colleagues play a huge role in professional and personal development for job seekers, which is why it’s important to recognize them for their guidance. Without their help, many job seekers and professionals wouldn’t be as successful as they are today.

Whether your mentor is a college professor, an old boss, or a friend, make sure you remember to recognize them for everything they’ve done for you. If you’re looking for some ways to thank your mentor, check out these ideas:

1. Write a blog post about your mentor

A thoughtful way to recognize your mentor is to write a feature story about him or her on your blog. Blog posts are a great way to share the lessons you’ve learned while thanking the person for being an excellent role model. There are a number of angles you can write this piece, so it’s really up to you how you do it.

If you’re looking for some ideas, consider interviewing your mentor or write about a lesson he or she taught you. For example, if there was a moment in your job search where you were discouraged and your mentor helped you overcome an obstacle, share some of the insight your mentor gave you.

2. Promote your mentor’s content

Promoting your mentor’s content is a great way to reciprocate the help they’ve given you. Whether they shared some of your work with a colleague or promoted your portfolio to employers, your mentor has been by your side to make sure you get recognition in your industry. Why not think your mentor for everything they’ve done to build your brand by returning the same favor?

3. Send a handwritten thank you note

There’s no better way to thank a mentor than to simply say “thank you.” Handwritten thank you notes are a special way to show any person gratitude. Even though this is a more personal way of recognizing your mentor, it is still a nice gesture to show him or her how much their wisdom means to you.

4. Be a super-connector for your mentor

Your mentor has probably served as a great resource for networking as you’ve looked for jobs or new professional development opportunities. Chances are, they’ve connected you with people who landed you jobs or helped you reach the next level of your career.

Recognize your mentor by reciprocating the networking they’ve done for you in your career. You can do this by connecting your mentor with people you think would create a beneficial relationship. This is just another great way to recognize your mentor for how they helped you build a strong network over the years.

Regardless of how you choose to show appreciation for your mentor, thanking them for their wisdom, guidance, and friendship is a wonderful way to strengthen your relationship. Why not take some time today to say “thank you” to the people who have helped you the most throughout your career?

Want to Be Untouchable at Work This Year? Here’s How to Ensure You Never Get Sacked

2014-05-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

Editor’s Note: This article has previously been published at Ynaija.com
This year alone thousands of people lost their jobs and more will definitely lose their jobs in the New Year. Many people who lost their jobs were apparently not to blame directly as the economic depression and falling economy can be harsh on businesses that in turn cut losses by laying off people.
While we get into 2013 things do not look a whole lot better and it will be wise to make plans to ensure your ‘unsackability’ at work. Below we share tips and advice gleaned from top HR executives, CEOs and business owners on what today’s employees can do to virtually make their jobs ‘sack-proof’

Stay Ahead of Trends

In the private sector it is already a given that you do not have the luxury to remain stagnant as is the case with most employees in the public sector. I dare say that even public sector workers are beginning to find a gradual change in the dynamics of the workplace. The case of Power Holding Company of Nigeria Plc and others come to mind. The government appears keen to keep on with its policy of privatization and deregulation in key public sectors and what this means is that even public sector workers must sit up, update themselves and keep ahead of the trends.
Personal improvement and knowledge acquisition is something every employee or worker must take serious in the New Year. Acquire new skills, make yourself more useful at the workplace and increase your productivity. These are sure ways to ensure that when your company or employer decides to reduce the workforce you will be among those counted too valuable to be shown the door.

Develop Your People Power

Networking and making valuable friendships have never been more important than in today’s labour market. At your workplace the politics of remaining in the job demands that you do not create the image of a lone ranger and introvert who rarely has anything to do with colleagues and superiors.
Your networking skills do not only come to play when you are searching for jobs. Making meaningful connections and friendships while at work can go some way to save your job when the rough times come. Focus on helping your superiors sincerely and make yourself an indispensable ally to them. They will think twice before recommending you for dismissal if the company decides to lay off people.

Start Building Exposure

No matter what you do to secure your job you must also plan for the inevitable and start now to cultivate your personal brand. Build a reputation for yourself in the industry. You could aim to become one of the hardest working, most knowledgeable, smartest or creative individuals in your industry. Make friends outside your current workplace and try to build connections with superiors from other organizations. These are things that could help you jump ship from your current company to a more stable one where your job is more secure and rewarding. Every month people get poached from one company to another and this happens because they are regarded as very knowledgeable and valuable by the poaching organization.

Become Actively Involved and Interested in Technology

It is said that eventually every job category will be influenced to some extent by technology, some may entirely be taken over by technology in a few years. One way to ensure your continued relevance is to embrace technology, learn all you can about how technology is affecting your industry and acquire new tech skills related to your career goals.

Nobody Is Indispensible But You Can Get Close

The above tips may not give you a 100% assurance that you will always be in a well paying, fascinating job but taking each of the steps will make you get as close as possible to being a much sought after employee. Despite any economic downturn that comes on the country your chances of remaining in a job or getting even better offers will be stronger than ever.

5 Power Tips For Networking Effectively in Your Workplace

2014-05-05T09:35:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest benefits you can derive from effective networking at your workplace is career growth. Being good at maintaining fruitful career and business relationships will more often than not help you along in your workplace especially if you are new.
Here are five tips (power tips) to get you on your way to building strong network and links at your workplace.
1. Smile and Be Friendly to All:
It is a rule you should keep in mind when you are especially new in any work environment. Smile and be friendly. This helps people settle easily with you and gets your friends quicker than anything else.
Wearing a tall face and generally looking like you lost a million dollars will not get you the allies you need at the workplace. It might not be easy to smile all the time but keep trying and it just might start coming without any struggle.
2. Get to Know Who Matters:
A young lecturer was new in the English department of my school during my undergraduate days. He was very good at tip no 1 but was also very smart. He quickly got on good terms with the Head of Department and the two senior lecturers in the department. Within 6 months he was the Exam Officer, a posistion never reserved for new, inexperienced lecturers like him. He got into the confidence and good books of the right people.
It may be like a commonsense advice you would find in the 48 Laws of Power but getting the people who matter in your workplace to recognise and trust you is more difficult than it appears. Much of the results of you career networking will depend on tip no 2.
3. Offer to Help: In the short story above what I didn’t mention earlier was how the young lecturer got the confidence of the HOD and the two senior staff in the department.
One day he noticed the HOD was head over heels in work trying to finish the grading of hundreds of examination papers for third year students she taught that semester. The young lecturer on one of his courtesy and brief visits to her office offered to help her with the grading. She at first wanted to be polite and decline the offer but the young man would have none of it. He insisted that she was tired enough and could do with some help. Sweeping the papers off her desk he took the entire remaining papers to his office. In 3 hours he was back with the grades. She ws surprised and impressed.
The young lecturer succeeded in proving he was smart and could do a good job with responsibilities entrusted on him. That is exactly what any professional or career person should be seeking to establish from day one in his or her workplace. Be seen as dependable and reliable by your superiors and they will depend the heck on you. Along with that you get pushed faster up the corporate ladder.

9 Realities for Graduates Looking to Get Ahead in Career and Business

2014-04-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

On the rules of life for graduates and young people alike.
RULE 1: Life is not fair; get used to it.
RULE 2: The world won’t care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something before you feel good about yourself.
RULE 3: If you think your teacher is tough, wait until you get a boss. He doesn’t have tenure.
RULE 4: Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your grandparents had a different word for burger flipping; they called it opportunity.
RULE 5: If you mess up, it’s not your parents’ fault, so don’t whine about your mistakes, learn from them.
RULE 6: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life has not. In some schools they have abolished failing grades; they’ll give you as many times as you want to get the right answer. This doesn’t bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.
RULE 7: Life is not divided into semesters. You don’t get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you find yourself. Do that on your own time.
RULE 8: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.
RULE 9: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you’ll end up working for one.

6 Things you Should Do Few Hours to Your Interview

2014-04-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

Today I want to bring some useful tips on interview. Few hours to your interview can be very tricky. What you do at this time could make or mar your interview. Here are six things you should do few hours to your interview.
Put away your notes. rehearsing to the last minute could backfire. Make sure you conclude preparation hours before.
Eat a good meal. Don’t got to any interview in empty stomach and don’t go either with over filled stomach. Ensure you take adequate meal that supply you needed energy and keep you sound and sharp. Avoid meals that could make you dull and upset your stomach.
Eat meals that are low on the glycemic index and combine carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Eat Proven brain food like fish, nuts and legumes.”
Interact with an Optimistic Friend. Don’t spend time with someone that will discourage, upset you or someone who you are not comfortable with. Rather interact with someone who makes you happy, boosts your confidence and encourages you.
Clear your head. Forget about every other thing. The only thing that matters at the moment is your interview. Spend time in a quiet place to meditate.
Avoid dressing or make up blunders. Do not wear strong perfume. If you sweat a lot, use deodorant. For ladies avoid applying too much makeup. Go light on everything.
Finally, be there on time. The last thing you need is rushing and being disorganized.

7 Reasons Your Boss Doesn’t Recognize Your Efforts at Work

2014-04-14T09:13:00.000-07:00

We all like to get recognized for a job well done—recognition, and sometimes reward, helps us stay motivated and also instills within us a sense of pride and accomplishment. On the other hand, when we put in a lot of effort or complete a job or project and receive little or no recognition for it, the results can be decidedly negative. Sometimes, fault lies with management, who is either too busy or too unconcerned to notice your efforts and hard work. But other times, the fault may actually lie with you—there are several reasons why you may not be receiving the recognition you deserve. Do any of these apply to you?
1. Does Anyone Actually Know What You’re Working On?
If you work in a large office, it may be difficult for management to attribute any specific accomplishments directly to you, as there are likely myriad projects and tasks going on, in addition to the dozens of other action items your boss handles on a daily basis. Even in small offices, your work may go unnoticed if your name isn’t attached to it.
To remedy this, you might consider sending your boss an email to let him know when a particular project has been completed, or even just to let him know that you’ve enjoyed being a part of a particular project. Submitting a weekly or monthly report is also a possibility, showing that you are well organized as well as hard working. The overall objective is to instill more recognition and connection between you and the work you’ve achieved, so that credit will be given where credit is due.
2. Are You a Team Player?
Working well with others is a key attribute that many employers look for. But just because you are working with a team doesn’t mean you can’t still receive proper recognition. By being a good team player, your coworkers will recognize the hard work you’ve done, and will be more inclined to bolster your reputation. But keep in mind, you should also treat others with the same respect—if someone else is deserving of recognition, don’t hesitate to offer your acknowledgement of their performance.
3. Be More Than Just a Name
In large companies, management may not even be aware of all the employees that work beneath them, and oftentimes only see a name on a company roster, with little more to make you stand out from the rest of the department. To remedy this, find ways to get up close and personal with management. You don’t necessarily have to take your boss out to dinner, but introducing yourself at company events, stopping into their office once in a while to say hello, or finding other ways to converse with your boss are all surefire ways to make sure your boss has a face to go with the name.
4. Volunteer for Projects
You don’t have to wait to be assigned a project. If you know something is coming up and you feel capable of handling it in an efficient and successful manner, then by all means volunteer to be a part of it ahead of time. This not only show your boss your eagerness and willingness to work and accept new challenges, but also make you stand out from other employees as possible leadership material.
5. Develop Your Skills
Is there something you can do at your job better than anyone else, or better yet, something that nobody else can do? If you have a special skill that can be of great benefit to the company, then what are you waiting for? Show your boss what you can do! If there aren’t currently any projects or assignments you can work on that will showcase your skills, then perhaps you can draft a proposal or idea that makes use of your skills and also serves to benefit the company in some way.
6. Keep Track of Your Achievements
When it comes time to ask for a raise or a promotion, it’s a good idea to have just cause as to why you deserve it. By keeping track of all the projects you’ve worked on, tasks completed and even compliments received by other co-workers or management, you’ll be able to present a strong case as to why you are a valuable asset to the company.
7. Stay Informed
Subscribe to industry newsletters, attend trade shows or meetings, and anything else you can do to stay abreast of the latest advances and news in your industry. By staying knowledgeable and perhaps having information that no one else in your organization is aware of yet, you can initiate conversations and let management know about new trends or technologies that may be beneficial to the business.
Jennifer Carter writes on career advancement for Outbounding.com. In her spare time she’s quite handy and is currently working on a confined space entry from Etraintoday

How to Hire the Most Innovative Job Candidates

2014-04-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

Innovation is one of the key ingredients to a successful company; it’s relevant in every area from marketing to product development. An innovative mindset helps companies adapt to changes in the market, as well as meet the unmet needs of customers that are not currently served by competitors. But innovation also plays a role in the hiring process. How can you make sure that your firm is screening candidates to find the most innovative people for any given position? Here are five ideas.
1. Use a non-traditional hiring process: Innovation today (in almost every industry) requires a willingness to creatively use and think strategically about technology and digital assets. Ask candidates to submit their application in a different format (either instead of or in addition to a standard resume). Some ideas include a video pitch, a presentation on how they would spend the first sixty days in the position, or specific projects from a portfolio.
2. Give a case study: While case studies have an established role in certain fields like management consulting, all companies can benefit by giving case studies to potential recruits. In addition to demonstrating specific skills and knowledge, it allows you to understand how candidates think, problem solve, and perform under pressure. Case studies can be used in any position from engineers to accountants to strategists. Different formats may be applicable, from a written case to a verbal scenario. Make sure that cases at least have a “correct direction” while also leaving room for candidates to show creative thinking.
3. Ask candidates to facilitate a brainstorm session: Instead of an awkward group interview, ask candidates to run a brainstorming session around a specific strategic problem related to the position they are interviewing for. For example, a high level executive administrator might be asked to lead a discussion about streamlining the management process of executive admins across the company. An engineer might be asked to lead a cross functional team discussion on a coding problem. Innovation can be measured not only in the contributions of original thought, but how they structure problems and encourage others to contribute.
4. Explore the non-obvious learning opportunities candidates pursue: High achievers and innovators tend to be ruthlessly committed to learning. Discuss long-term learning goals with candidates; look beyond traditional management training opportunities and degrees. Does the candidate work with a coach, attend industry conferences, or take part in a mastermind group? What books have they read recently in their field? Do they regularly read blogs or take part in online learning? While these discussions need to be tailored to individual candidates and fields, a few well-placed questions can reveal which candidates have a deep passion for their field and are likely to be exposed to new ideas before the competition.
5. Cross discipline influences: Innovation often happens as a result of the integration of different domains. Candidates that have varied backgrounds, whether that’s an English degree and an MBA, diverse work experience or simply broad interests can bring new perspective to old problems. One direct way to understand this is to ask candidates to solve a specific problem by applying influences from one area to their primary domain. For example, ask a marketing manager to apply systems thinking to a communications problem. Understanding how people apply diverse influences reveals a lot about their thought process and background, as well as their ability to participate in cross-functional teams.
By introducing changes to the process, questions you ask candidates, or what you’re looking for with specific positions, it’s possible to more effectively measure innovation during the hiring process. Over time, this will help ensure that key positions are filled with innovative thinkers and ultimately help you surge past your competition.

This post was written by Justin Barnes of Cloverleaf Innovation, brand consultancy located in a suburb of Chicago, IL.

5 Things You Should Remove From Your CV Right Now

2014-03-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

It only takes and employer or a recruiter about 30 seconds to scan through your CV/resume before deciding whether it is worth keeping aside or taking a longer and closer look at. It has been established that in addition to the design and layout (degree to which your CV is arranged and pleasing to the eye) the most important thing that attracts the glancing employer to take a closer look at your CV is the content.
During that 30 seconds you don’t want the employer seeing things that will mostly kill off your chances of getting a deeper look-in and possible consideration. You don’t want irrelevant messages and content in your CV because the more irrelevant information you leave there the more unlikely it is that your CV will hold the attention of the employer. And what you ideally want is for the employer/recruiter to be held by your CV and make him shortlist your application for possible future interviews. That in effect is the work of your CV. To make your CV achieve its mission here are things you should set about removing from your CV now.
1. Photos
I cannot, for the life of me, understand what purpose a picture of your smiling (or even sober) face will do for you in your CV. Unless you are applying for a job where physical attractiveness is of high importance or applying for a modelling gig I don’t see why you should paste photos of yourself or any other thing for that matter on your CV.
I still come across CVs where the owners can’t just do away with their portraits on it. It profits you nothing and depending on whom you sent your CV to might even cost you a chance to be considered. What you want is for the employer to see your work accomplishments and compelling information on why you are a good fit for the job not for him to admire your looks on your CV!
2. Unnecessary Personal Information
While drawing up your CV or talking to friends they may advise you add all sorts of information to your CV including religious affiliation (who cares what you worship) and even personal passions that have no bearing whatsoever to your professional/career goals or even to the job you are pursuing.
Revealing too much personal information will open the doors of discrimination against you even as many of the information do not have any relation to your ability on the job. Including too many useless personal information will tend to only make your CV longer and not necessarily better.
However there are some personal information that you might include because they have some relevance to the job you’re applying for. For instance if you are applying for a Regional Sales Manager job with a Tennis ball manufacturer and you are an avid tennis player it is perfectly sound to include your hobby of tennis. If you are applying to an NGO mentioning your volunteering experience will surely put your CV in a good light.
The key is to think through each information before including it. Does it make any improvement for your case? Will including that personal information (possibly about your religion, political affiliation etc) open up discriminatory doors against you?
Here are a couple of useless personal information we see in candidates’ CVs:
- “I’m father to three wonderful children and divorced.”
- “I have political sympathy for ABC party.”
3. Reasons for Leaving Your Former Job
If you have worked before there are chances that you may have left your one or two former jobs in a way you’d prefer not to have happened.
You are under no obligation to reveal why you left a previous job. If it comes up in an interview, address the question honestly. But you certainly don’t have to volunteer this information up front. You should never include ‘reasons for leaving your former job’ on your CV. You only tackle the issue when asked during interviews.
4. Career Objective
Well many people are still guilty of this one. They create a two or three sentence career objective statement in their CV and think it has any impact whatsoever on the employer.
The employer knows simply that your objective is to get a job with the company and earn good money nothing else. Employers barely look at the often repeated career objective you probably use in all your CV for job applications.
5. Irrelevant Work Experiences
Instead of trying to impress the employer by including all and any non-relevant experience you have had at working on anything carefully try to project the work experience you have that are relevant to what the employer needs. While trying not to leave too much idle gaps in your CV showcase the relevant experience you have garnered in the past that will prove useful and relevant for the job.

How You Can Find a Job Through Your Church

2014-03-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

Job searching has gone beyond just applying to vacancies displayed on newspapers, online job boards or local recruitment agencies. These days with increasing competition for very few available jobs, you need to apply out-of-the-box strategies to quickly land a good job without hassle. Today am exposing a very common but often overlooked recruitment ground that has helped many get very juicy jobs; Church.
Most people just go to church to worship. They come quietly and go quietly without taking time to socialize with their fellow worshippers.
One of my friends who just graduated early last year got his first job in a top bank through a friend at the church who works in the bank. Immediately he graduated, he told the members of the youth forum of his church. Being a very active member of the forum, within weeks he was alerted of various internal vacancies in various companies and he finally chose the bank job.
People are more comfortable recommending people they know and people of the same belief with them to positions. Because they, already know their capabilities and most importantly they can always vouch for them.
One of the first steps you should take today is telling your fellow worshippers that you are looking for particular kind of jobs. Take time to mingle with them, make them close friends. Take is from there, then it will be left for you to prove yourself when you are invited for interview.
Have you got a job through your church? What was your experience? Lets hear from you, post your comment below.
This post was written by Andy at NairaBrains.com

Five Social Media Strategies to Getting a New Job

2014-03-17T09:06:00.000-07:00

Several years ago searching and looking for jobs was more of looking through newspaper ads and who you know. While the aspect of who you know has not yet changed in the job industry the coming of the internet has given job seekers more tools and power to determine how to get the job they want.
In this age of internet and social media making connections have become easier and smart career focused individuals can take advantage of the possibilities of internet to increase their chances of getting a good job.
Here are five ways any job seeker can use the internet and social media in searching and getting that next job;
Go on LinkedIn and Connect With Professionals and Employers
LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional networking website. As it becomes more popular in Nigeria you can find many business managers, CEOs, and professionals on LinkedIn. Among all the social networks in use today Linkedin is the most career focused.
Create a profile for yourself and make sure it contains clear and truthful information about your work. Find and connect with individuals who work in the sector you are interested in. As you make more useful connections exchange useful information with them and ask for tips and useful information on the type of jobs you are seeking for. Never turn to a pest on social media asking your connections to give you a job.
I have contacted a couple of people for interview via Linkedin just because I looked at their profile and felt they have the skills and experience to work for us. So make sure you create a profile that will reflect and attract people to tell you about suitable jobs
Make Your Twitter Account Professional
If you use Twitter make sure you don’t use it the same way you use Facebook. Twitter can be a great way to follow people and companies you like to work for and get updates from them. Learn as much as you can about your potential industry and make useful tweets with you account. Respond intelligently to tweets by people and companies you admire and you stand a chance of getting noticed as a good candidate to hire.
Use Job Search Tools
If you are searching for relevant jobs to the course you read or qualifications you have a good way is to use job search sites like Ngcareers. You can also subscribe to email updates based on categories so you are alerted when the type of jobs you want become available.
Make Your Online Image Look Professional
These days before a company hires somebody especially if the job is an important one they check out the background of the person. Today’s web world has made it easier to check someone’s background. Be sure that when you are searched for on Facebook or Twitter that your profile looks professional. Never waste your time posting dirty images and pictures on your wall because your Facebook wall shows the prospective employer the kind of person you may be.
Use Videos
Youtube has become the most popular means of getting viral video out there. Some types of jobs benefit from using Youtube. If for instance you are looking for a great marketing, interpreter job or any job that can be illustrated by showing your ability on video you can use Youtube to create short videos about yourself and why you are a good candidate for that type of job you want. Share your videos through facebook, twitter and various relevant groups on LinkedIn. If your video gets picked up by the right people you could get calls for interview and possible new job.
Searching for a job in today’s world requires out-of-the-box thinking creativity and using the tools provided by the internet as listed in this article can help you fast track your job search.

Fresh Graduate? 4 Things You Should do to Get a Job Fast

2014-03-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

You are fresh graduate, who just graduated, whats the next thing? JOB!!. You are brimming with all confidence of landing a great job in just few months. You quickly prepare a CV and start throwing applications here and there hoping that one will stick. Alas, months, years later you are still in the same process of applying without success. Then you feel like giving up – ”I have been searching related job sites, networking with people in the same field and I am not sure I will get a job I am passionate about or I can learn from“.
Do you even realize that you are better than many others? At least you are reading this, they are not! As a fresh graduate you are faced with many challenges in landing a good job; prominent among them is lack of experience, but there are many things you neglect that is denying you the opportunity to land a good job.
If you are a new graduate trying to a land job, the key to your successful job search is your ability to stand out and differentiate yourself from the pack.

You should identify what sets you apart from other candidates; specifically, you should be able to speak about your successes and unique experiences.
You should keep yourself open but not desperate.
You should open yourself to different fields that are of interest to you. Not narrowing yourself down to just a field. This does not mean desperation.
You need to be able to sieve what you want from the lot.

Below are few important tips:
Flexibility
Employers are looking for more than grades now. They want to see outside activities where you showed leadership and management skills.
Employers are looking for people that are flexible and get the ground running not people that need time to adapt to an office setting from the academic environment.
Go get some experience
There are lots of volunteer work you can do while searching for job. This adds to your experience. Check out NGOs and community service organizations in your locality, offer to do some volunteer work with them.
Making constructive contact
Connections are very important especially when the competition is very keen. New graduates should network with family and alumni who work in their desired professions or who have high ranking positions in companies. Think broadly about expanding relationships and networks. Volunteering is an excellent opportunity to network.
Online Network
Online networking can be an effective tool in job search. By using facebook and Twitter efficiently and professionally, you can exponentially expand your list of contacts, communicate effectively and maintain relationships. Read discussions and post your own helpful, insightful comments. This will enhance your relationship with others. You can also use forums to your advantage. Post a status update that you are interested in a particular firm and ask if anyone can share any insight or knows someone there. Leverage any and all connections you to help put your resume to the top of the pile and gather information on the firm.

Stop Looking For Job! Take Control of Your Job Search

2014-03-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Do you know it is possible to take charge of your job search? To be in control of how you search for job. Sometimes it can be frustrating applying over and over again for jobs and never hearing back.
When you apply online, the probability of you getting that job is very slim unless your qualifications exactly match what the employer wants. It’s not impossible to land an opportunity via an online application; many people do find jobs that way, but it doesn’t change the fact that you’re not likely to get hired from a resume submission.
So what is the solution?
Stop looking for a job. Start looking for a company.
This may seem weird, but it may be the best career move you never considered. Instead of spending all of your time searching for appropriate job descriptions and targeting your resume to apply for them, you should consider shifting some of your efforts to identifying organizations whose goals are in line with your interests and whose problems you know you can solve.
How do you go about this?

Create a list of potential employers who need your kind of problem-solving abilities.
Be armed with research on these potential employers to understand their issues and how you can make a difference.
Prepare examples of your work in both story and written form.
Be able to present yourself as a solution. Know what makes you special and stick to it. Don’t waiver.

How should you make lists of employers?
Start with companies you know about and where you might want to work. Don’t worry if they don’t have openings, this research focuses on places you’d like to work-not companies advertising for jobs.
It’s a good idea to steer your research to include companies where you already have networking connections. Where your friends work.
Once you identify organizations of interest, start learning all you can about them. Luckily, this is much easier today than it ever was in the past. Examine the company’s complete digital footprint. Many firms post videos, and manage Facebook pages and Twitter feeds touting their organizations and why you might want to work there.
Study each company’s website and blog if they have one, and search for their employees on Twitter and Facebook. (A lot of people list where they work in their Twitter and facebook profiles.)
Look in LinkedIn for groups related to any company that interests you to identify people who work there and for industry specific groups where you’ll meet people who work in organizations of interest.
Learn what you can about the organizations and their issues by keeping up-to-date with their online materials and by connecting with their employees. Move online relationships to in-person or telephone conversations to learn all you can. Share information about you with people who work in the organizations you’re targeting. Informational meetings are key for career success.
Target your materials and prepare samples of your work to address those needs. First, be sure your resume focuses on the organization’s needs. It shouldn’t be a rehashing of “stuff” you’ve done in the past; make it about your future. Your Linked In profile should be completely filled out to indicate your expertise, especially the summary and specialties sections.
Create a social resume, or personal website to showcase your expertise and to tell your career story. You can use different pages on the site to highlight your experience in various areas and to focus the reader on the reasons you are well suited for the organization. When people you meet online Google you to learn more, or click through your profiles to find out about you, a well-written, in-depth social resume helps ensure they see exactly what you want them to learn about you.
Presenting yourself as the solution is easier once all the other pieces are in place. Try these approaches for a few weeks as part of your job hunt to see if it makes a difference for you!

Job Application Mistakes to Avoid and How to Increase Chances of Being Called for Interviews

2014-02-24T08:31:00.000-08:00

If you are seeking better career opportunities and have consistently sent in applications for job vacancies without getting positive response (such as being invited for interviews) then this article might help you.

Mistakes Most Job seekers Make While Applying for Jobs

Through our job search site we have discovered that many applicants and candidates are responsible for the low response to their job applications.
During a recent test we carried out on how candidates apply to jobs in Nigeria we came to discover the following
Many Candidates Do not Bother to Include Well Written Cover Letter to their Applications
Where Cover Letters are Used They are Barely up to Three Lines and Do not Tell Anything USeful ABout the Candidate
The CVs sent in for Applications are Mostly Not Suited for the Job Being Applied to
These were most of the noticed errors made by jobseekers who apply to jobs on our Job site.

How Can You Increase Your Chances of Getting Called for Interviews When You Apply for Jobs

Below we go straight to the point and note down several key actions to take when next you are applying for jobs to ensure your application success rate increases significantly;
1. Quality and not Quantity Counts
Many candidates seem to think that the more jobs they apply for the better their chances of getting invited for interviews. Nothing can be more deceiving. You may submit 200 applications to 200 different jobs per week and still get zero invitations because your applications are not targeted. You are simply sending the same CV for every job you see and the chances that your CV will impress the recruiters are very slim.
It is better you make a list of three or four jobs that you wish to apply for where you are confident that your current qualifications, experience and skills stand you in good stead. When you focus on these four job types it helps you focus on creating a CV that will be highly attractive to those kind of jobs.
When next you start searching for latest jobs in Nigeria to apply to don’t be tempted to apply for every job you see. Stick to applying for jobs that match your CV (the qualifications, experience and skills you have).
2. Check Your CV Before Applying for That Job
Most people rarely look through their CV (just to be sure it will impress the employer for that particular job) and just download from their email folder to submit. Next time check through your CV and compare it against the job you are applying for. Does it look good enough for the job in its current state? Does it need some little adjustments to make it more relevant?
While we advise against putting false information in your CV (more on CV padding latter) note that you can create different CVs each with a unique strength for a particular job. Always try to see if there are little changes you can make to your CV for each job application especially if the job you are applying to is different from the type of job you have previously used your CV to apply for.
Cross checking your CV will help you see if there are errors or irrelevant information in the CV that will affect its performance in that particular submission.
3. Write a Brief but Powerful Cover Letter
Do not submit your applications without an accompanying cover letter (unless clearly stated by the job advertiser). In cases where an employer gets too many applications your Cover Letter is a powerful tool to draw their attention and make them take a look at your CV.
What a Good Cover Letter Should Contain;
- After the greeting introduce yourself as briefly and accurately as possible.
- Next state briefly that you are applying for the stated job vacancy and outline why you think you are a good fit for the job
- Close strongly outlining your skills and experience for the job.
Find a sample of a good Cover Letter below (never copy exactly in your applications)

Dear Sir/Madam,
I am Chris Okon. I hold a degree in information Technology from the University of Calabar and a certificate in Web Development from the New Horizons Learning Center.
I apply for the position of Web Developer/Designer as advertised by your organisation.
As someone enthusiastic about creating great, pleasing development work I believe the position is a great one to contribute to the growth of your organisation.
My experience for the job include;
- Web Developer for Insight Technologies where I developed and led a team that managed over 25 design & development projects for various clients with 100% satisfaction rate
- Developer of several projects for private clients (including churches and educational institutions)
My experience in coming up with various angles to a design project and ability to work under schedule stand me in good stead to meet and surpass your expectations.
I am quick and eager to learn and promise to put in my utmost best if considered for the job.
Find attached my CV and other relevant documents
Regards
Chris Okon

A carefully written Cover Letter (while others just send in their CVs only) will indicate to the recruiter that you have actually taken the time to go through the vacancy advertised and that you are serious about being considered for the job.
Try the above tips from today and watch the response you get when you apply for jobs.

3 Smart Tips To Help You Get The Job Of Your Dream – Part 2

2014-02-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

You Show.
My name is Mayowa and i will be your regular anchor on Your Career And You Show.
This Podcast is brought to you by You Career And You and NgCareers.
In the last episode of Your Career And You Show,I started a 3 part series topic – 3 Smart Tips To Help You Get The Job Of Your Dream and in that episode,I mentioned the first smart tip to be “Knowing What You Can Do”.
In this episode,I revealed the number 2 smart tip that will help you get closer to landing that job you have always dream of all this while.
This number two tip or step is really very important after knowing what you can do and inside this episode,you get to hear that next thing you need to do after knowing what you can do.
The taste of the pudding is in the eating,everything you need to know is packed into today’s episode.
You won’t want to miss a free copy of an inspiring and job winning book – 7 Days To The Job You Want. This book reveals how you can land the job you want as soon as possible. Download your own copy today, it’s free!
Also, I will like to show you How I Got My Dream Job In Just Two Weeks!
Enjoy today’s show

Play Today’s Episode Here
You Can Download Today’s Episode Of Your Career And You Show Here

(Right Click On The Link And Click On “Save Links As” To Download The Audio File)

Don’t forget to leave your comment and reviews here at the comment box below.
We will love to hear from you about what you think of the show.
Join us here again next week for another episode of Your Career And You Show

http://blog.ngcareers.com/2012/3-smart-tips-to-help-you-get-the-job-of-your-dream-part-2/

Monday Career Humour: The Reason I’m Tired of Working!

2014-02-10T08:28:00.000-08:00

I’m tired of working!! For a couple of years I’ve been blaming it on lack of sleep and too much pressure from my job, but now I found out the real reason: I’m tired because I’m overworked.
The population of this country is 170 million. About 37 million are retired. That leaves 133 million to do the work.
There are 85 million in school, which leaves 48 million to do the work.
Of this there are 29 million employed by the federal government, leaving 19 million to do the work.
2.8 million are in the Armed Forces, which leaves 16.2 million to do the work.
Take from the total the 14,800,000 people who work for State and City Governments and that leaves 1.4 million to do the work.
At any given time there are 188,000 people in hospitals, leaving 1,212,000 to do the work.
Now, there are 1,211,998 people in prisons.
That leaves just two people to do the work. You and me.
And you’re sitting at your computer reading jokes!

Do You Make This Simple Mistake in Your Job Search?

2014-02-03T08:25:00.000-08:00

Having you been applying for jobs for sometime now with no response or feedback from employers? Have you always wondered what could be wrong? Qualification? Yes you have the complete qualification, you met the requirements, why then have you not been called, even for an interview?
You might be making mistake of not reading instructions before applying.
Most times in your bid to apply for job quickly, you forget simple instruction on how to apply. From experience we noticed that many jobseekers fail to follow simple instructions on steps to apply for job. For example, a position might require you apply using job reference number as subject line of application, or attach you CV in Microsoft Word format only. Failing simple instructions like this could be costing a lot.
In exam setting, you are always asked to cross your I(s) and dot you T(s). The same applys to your job search. Make sure you crosscheck everything before submitting your application.
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